Automatic Magazine Ejector For Firearm

ABSTRACT

The present invention provides an automatic magazine ejector for a firearm. The invention provides a magazine ejection device for a firearm having a receiver, a magazine, wherein the magazine has an engaged state and a disengaged state of operation, comprising: a trigger housing having first and second opposing sides, a cavity defined by the first and second opposing sides, a pin spanning the cavity and a recess within at least one of the first and second opposing sides; and, a spring having first and second ends, the second end being disposed within the recess when the device is in use and wherein the first end being operably configured to engage and apply a force on the magazine when the device is in use and the magazine is in the engaged state. The invention also includes a method of modifying an existing firearm to include an automatic magazine ejection device.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a nonprovisional application of U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 61,367,193 filed on Jul. 23, 2010, and this applicationclaims priority to that application and that application is incorporatedin its entirety herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of Invention

This invention relates to firearms and more particularly to devices forejecting magazine cartridges from 22 caliber rifles.

2. Description of Related Art

The present invention relates generally to a .22 semi-automatic riflemagazine release. Particularly, the present invention relates to adevice that when integrated into a Ruger 10/22 semi-automatic rifle, itallows for a quick ejection of the magazine.

The .22 semi-automatic rifle is very popular for target practice and forsmall-game hunting. One of the most common complaints about the .22semi-automatic rifle is regarding the removal of the magazine to reloadthe weapon. Removing the magazine is often difficult and time consuming.

In order to reload the weapon, the magazine must be removed. With theconventional magazine release, the user must push the magazine latchwith one hand and then wiggle the magazine with the other hand to removeit. This process is inconvenient and takes unnecessary time. Forcompetition shooting it is necessary for the competitor to reload asfast as possible.

Often the user of a .22 semi-automatic rifle wears gloves when using theweapon. With the conventional magazine release it is difficult to graspthe magazine and wiggle it out. The user often needs to set the weapondown and remove his gloves prior to removing the magazine, and then puthis gloves back on prior to using the weapon again. This causesinconvenience to the user who wants to continue shooting.

Therefore, there remains a need for a faster, quicker, and effectivemagazine release for the .22 semi-automatic rifle.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to overcome the drawbacks andshortcomings of the conventional magazine release of the .22semi-automatic rifle. Particularly, the present invention provides aspring loaded magazine release made specifically for the .22semi-automatic rifle.

The present invention provides a device that when incorporated into the.22 semi-automatic rifle, it makes it so that a user can push themagazine latch lever with one hand and the magazine is quickly ejectedout of the firearm.

Further, the present invention provides a device that when incorporatedinto the .22 semi-automatic rifle, it makes it so that a user can reloadthe firearm quickly and easily without setting down their rifle, orremoving their gloves and using their fingers to grasp the magazine,jiggle and pull out the magazine.

This invention overcomes the drawbacks and shortcomings of theconventional devices.

The present invention provides a magazine ejection device for a firearmhaving a receiver, a magazine, and a trigger housing with two sideplates defining an internal cavity, a housing wall in the internalcavity, and first and second pins each spanning the internal cavity,wherein the magazine has an engaged state and a disengaged state ofoperation, comprising: an actuator having an engagement member and anaction arm connected by a body portion, the actuator being operablyconfigured to be at least partially disposed and moveable within theinternal cavity, wherein the action arm is in contact with the magazinewhen in use and the magazine is in the engaged state; and, a springbeing disposed adjacent to the engagement member, the spring beingoperably configured to be disposed within the internal cavity and beingdisposed adjacent to the second pin when in use, wherein the spring isbiased to apply a first force upon the actuator and the action armapplies a second force upon the magazine when in use and the magazine isin the engaged state. In one exemplary embodiment, the spring is atension spring. In an alternative embodiment the spring is a torsionspring. In yet another exemplary embodiment, the spring is removablyattached to the engagement member.

In another alternative embodiment, the actuator includes a second bodyportion and a slot defined between the body portion and the second bodyportion, wherein the slot has a bottom edge and is operably configuredto receive the first pin when the device is in use, wherein the actuatormoves relative to the first pin by the first force when the device is inuse and the magazine is altered from the engaged state to the disengagedstate, and the movement of the actuator is limited by the first pin andthe bottom edge. In yet another alternative embodiment, the body of theactuator slides along the wall when the device is in use and themagazine is altered from the engaged state to the disengaged state. Inanother alternative embodiment, the actuator includes a stopping legattached to the action arm, and wherein the stopping leg is operablyconfigured to be engageable with the wall and limit movement of theactuator within the housing when the device is in use and the magazineis altered from the engaged state to the disengaged state.

The present invention provides a magazine ejection device for a firearmhaving a receiver, a magazine, wherein the magazine has an engaged stateand a disengaged state of operation, comprising: a trigger housinghaving first and second opposing sides, a cavity defined by the firstand second opposing sides, a pin spanning the cavity and a recess withinat least one of the first and second opposing sides; and, a springhaving first and second ends, the second end being disposed within therecess when the device is in use and wherein the first end beingoperably configured to engage and apply a force on the magazine when thedevice is in use and the magazine is in the engaged state. In analternative embodiment, the recess includes a coil recess portion and aspring leg recess portion. In yet another alternative embodiment, thespring includes a coil section and first and second legs attached to thecoil section and wherein the second leg is disposed within the springleg recess portion and a portion of the coil section is disposed withinthe coil recess section. In another alternative embodiment, the recessis disposed on an exterior surface of the at least one of the first andsecond opposing sides. In still yet another alternative embodiment, thespring is a torsional spring. In another alternative embodiment, thefirst leg extends beyond the housing. In another alternative embodiment,the coil section includes two coils.

The present invention provides a method, comprising: acquiring a firearmhaving a receiver and a trigger housing having first and second sides,an internal cavity defined by the first and second sides, and a pinspanning the internal cavity; making a recess within a portion of thefirearm; and, placing a torsional spring within the recess. In analternative embodiment, the making a recess step includes making arecess in at least one of the first and second sides of the triggerhousing. In an alternative embodiment, the making a recess step includesmaking a recess in the receiver. In an alternative embodiment, themaking step includes removing the pin out of the housing prior to themaking step and replacing the pin in the housing after the making step.In yet another alternative embodiment, the making step includes making arecess having a leg section and a coil section, and wherein the legsection is shaped to receive a leg of the spring and the coil section isshaped to receive a coil section of the spring. In an alternativeembodiment, the placing a spring step includes placing the torsionalspring about the pin.

The present invention further provides a device for holding multiplemagazines for a firearm comprising: a block having first and secondsides, at least one bore; and, a plurality of ejection devices, each atleast partially disposed within the bore, wherein the ejection devicesprovide a force against the firearm when the device is engaged with areceiver of the firearm. In an alternative embodiment, the ejectiondevice includes an actuator and a spring. In another alternativeembodiment, the ejection device includes a spring biased wire.

These and other features and advantages of this invention are describedin, or are apparent from, the following detailed description of variousexemplary embodiments of the devices and methods according to thisinvention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various exemplary embodiment of this invention will be described indetail, with reference to the following figures, wherein;

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a trigger housing of a firearm with anejection device made in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the ejection device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a left side view of an actuator of the ejection device of FIG.2;

FIG. 4 is a top view of the actuator of FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a left side partial cross-section view of the ejection deviceof FIG. 1, showing a magazine in an engaged state with an ejector lever;

FIG. 6 is a left side partial cross-sectional view of the ejectiondevice of FIG. 1, showing the magazine in a disengaged state with anejector lever;

FIG. 6A is a left side partial cross-sectional view of an alternativeembodiment of an ejection device made in accordance with the presentinvention, showing a torsional spring;

FIG. 7 is a left side view of an alternative embodiment of an ejectiondevice made in accordance with the present invention, showing themagazine in an engaged state;

FIG. 8 is a left side view of the device of FIG. 7, showing the magazinein a disengaged state;

FIG. 9 is a left side view of an alternative embodiment of an ejectiondevice made in accordance with the present invention, showing themagazine in a disengaged state;

FIG. 10 is a left side view of an alternative embodiment of an ejectiondevice made in accordance with the present invention, showing themagazine in a disengaged state;

FIG. 11 is a left side perspective view of an actuator for analternative embodiment of an ejection device made in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIG. 12 is a left side perspective partial cross-sectional view of thedevice of FIG. 11, showing the alternative embodiment with the magazinein an engaged state;

FIG. 13 is a right side view of an alternative embodiment of an ejectiondevice made in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 14 is a right side view of an alternative embodiment of an ejectiondevice made in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 15 is a top view of the actuator of the device of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is a left side view of an alternative embodiment of an ejectiondevice made in accordance with the present invention, shown with areceiver and a trigger housing;

FIG. 17 is a left side view of an alternative embodiment of an ejectiondevice made in accordance with the present invention, shown with areceiver and a trigger housing;

FIG. 18 is a left side view of an alternative embodiment of an ejectiondevice made in accordance with the present invention, shown with areceiver and a trigger housing;

FIG. 19 is a right side view of an alternative embodiment of an ejectiondevice made in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 20 is a top view of an actuator of the device of FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 is a right side view of an alternative embodiment of an ejectiondevice made in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 22 is a top view of an actuator of the device of FIG. 21;

FIG. 23 is a right side view of an alternative embodiment of an ejectiondevice made in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 24 is a rear end view of the device of FIG. 23;

FIG. 25 is a right side view of an alternative embodiment of an ejectiondevice made in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 26 is a rear end view the device of FIG. 25; and,

FIG. 27 is a right side view of an alternative embodiment of an ejectiondevice made in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 shows a trigger housing 1 for a firearm. The trigger housing 1 ispreferably configured to the trigger housing for a 22 caliber rifle.

The trigger housing includes a variety of conventional components foundin a conventional 22 trigger housing, such as those made by Ruger. Thistrigger housing includes a trigger 2 and a hammer 4, which is operatedby the trigger 2. The housing also includes a magazine ejector lever 20having a free end 22 and an engagement end 24. The trigger housing 1further includes a plurality of pins, such as pins 15, 17 and 19, thatextend from one side of the housing to the other. The pins hold internalcomponents of the housing 1, such as the hammer 4 in place and/or allowthem to rotate relative to the housing 1.

FIGS. 1-6 display a magazine ejection device 100 made in accordance withthe present invention. The ejection device 100 includes a spring 102 andan actuator 110, as shown in FIG. 2. Note, the spring 102 is not shownin FIGS. 3 and 4 for clarity purposes.

The actuator 110 includes a main body having an action arm 120 andspring engagement member 130. The actuator 110 is preferably made of oneintegral piece of material. The engagement member 130 and the action arm120 are preferably at about opposing ends of the actuator 110, as shown.The engagement member 130 includes a notch 132. The notch 132 isoperably configured to receive an end of the spring 102.

Actuator 110 further includes an alignment slot 140 and portions 142 and150. Slot 140 is defined by portions 142 and 150, as shown. Portion 150is disposed along the length of the actuator between the action arm 120and the engagement member 130. Portion 150 includes an edge 152, whichis an opposing edge to the edge that forms a portion of the slot 140.Portion 150 further includes a bottom edge 154. Bottom edge 154 isangled relative to engagement member 130. The bottom edge 154 extendsfrom a point 155, where it is adjacent to the engagement portion 130 toa point 156. Point 155 is relatively closer to the slot 140 than thepoint 156 and this difference creates the angled edge 154. The edge 154is preferably angled so as to provide space within the housing 1 for thespring 102 when the device is in use as will be detailed further below.

The actuator 110 further includes leg 160 having a bottom edge 162. Leg160 is preferably disposed adjacent the action arm 120 and spaced alongthe length of the actuator 110 from the portion 150. The leg 160,portion 150 and the portion of the action arm 120 that accounts for thespacing between the leg and the portion 150 defines a void 164 beneaththe arm 120, as shown.

The actuator 110 preferably is substantially planar along its length,such that the action arm 120, leg 160 and portions 142 and 150 generallyfall within the same plane. Engagement member 130 is preferably disposedsubstantially perpendicular to the other portions of the actuator 110,as shown in FIG. 4. The engagement member 130 in this embodiment isintegral with the portion 150 and is made from the same material.However it should be appreciated that in other exemplary embodiments,the engagement member is not integral and is affixed to the actuatorbody by any conventional means, such as but not limited to welding,epoxy and the like.

FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate the device 100 in operation. The device 100 isoperably configured to assist with the ejection of a magazine 90,partially shown for clarity purposes, that is engaging a receiver of arifle, not shown. FIG. 5 illustrates an engaged state, wherein themagazine is inserted in the rifle. FIG. 6 illustrates a disengagedstate, wherein the magazine had just been disengaged.

It should be appreciated that in operation, it is the ejector lever 20that holds the magazine in the engaged state of FIG. 5. Activation bythe user of the ejector lever 20, enables the operation of the deviceand the switching of the states from engaged to disengaged. The engagedstate is achieved again when another magazine or the same magazine isreinserted into the rifle such that the ejector lever 20 is activated soas to engage and hold the magazine in the engaged state again.

In this operation, it will be appreciated that ejection device 100 ofthe present invention acts to forcibly eject the magazine away from therifle in a downward fashion as illustrated in FIG. 6. The amount offorce exerted upon the magazine is determined by the spring 102 that isemployed.

While in the engaged state, as shown in FIG. 5, the device 100 isexerting a downward force upon the magazine 90. The force is beinggenerated by the spring 102 pulling upon the notch 132 of the engagementmember 130 and hence the entire actuator 110 including the arm 120. Theother end of the spring 102 engages the pin 19. The arm 120 is operablyconfigured to engage a groove 92 of the magazine. However, even thoughthe arm 120 is applying a downward force upon the magazine 90, theengagement end 24 of the ejector lever 20 is disposed under a stud 94 onthe magazine 90 when in the engaged state. With the engagement end 24under the stud 94, the magazine is prevented from being ejected from therifle.

A spring 26 is disposed between an upper portion of the ejector lever 20and an internal wall 30 of the housing. The spring 26 is biased toprovided a force against the upper portion of the lever 20 to keep itfrom inadvertently disengaging the stud or tab 44 of the magazine 40.When the operator of the rifle desires to eject the magazine, the lever20 is activated by moving the free end 22 of the lever 20 in thedirection of arrow 2, as shown in FIG. 6. This causes the lever 22 torotate about pin 17 in a counter clockwise direction and it alsocompresses spring 26. The user will have to apply enough force to thelever 20 to overcome the force applied to the lever 20 by the spring 26.

The disengaged state is achieved once the lever 20 rotates enough sothat the end 24 is no longer disposed beneath the stud 94 of themagazine 90. At that moment, the device 100 of the present inventionwill still be applying a downward force upon the magazine (in thedirection of arrows 3 and 4) and the magazine will be automaticallyejected without the user having to pull or wiggle the magazine free fromthe firearm.

The actuator 110 translates downward when in operation and going betweenthe engaged and disengaged states. The actuator translates upwards whenin operation and going from the disengaged to the engaged state. Thealignment slot 140 is operably configured to receive pin 15. As theactuator translates up and down, the pin 15 within the alignment slot140 assists with keeping the actuator within the correct position withinthe housing during operation. The pin 15 stops the upward movement ofthe actuator when the pin engages the bottom of the slot 140. Thetrigger housing 1, includes an internal wall 30. Further edge 152 isoperably configured to slide along the wall 30. It is preferable to haveedge 152 slide along the wall 30 to provide stability to the movement ofthe actuator within the housing. The longer edge 152 is, the morestability it will provide. The dimensional length of the edge 152 isconstrained by the internal limitations of the components of the triggerhousing. The bottom edge 162 acts as a stop for the actuator 110. Thebottom edge 162 limits the downward travel of the actuator 110 withinthe housing as the bottom edge 162 will not travel past a portion of thewall 30, as shown in FIG. 6. The spring 102 is a tension spring in thisexemplary embodiment. It should be appreciated that in other exemplaryembodiments the spring may be other types of spring, such as a torsionalspring and arranged differently within the housing so long as it appliesa spring bias against the actuator such that the actuator applies thedownward force upon the magazine.

FIG. 6A displays such an embodiment. FIG. 6A shows the use of atorsional spring 102′ rather than the spring 102. The spring 102′ haslegs 103 and 104. Spring 102′ is disposed about another pin 21, whichextends through the housing. Leg 103 engages the engagement member 130and leg 104 engages another pin 11, which extends through the housing.It should be appreciated that leg 104 could press against othercomponents within the housing. With this arrangement, the torsionalspring 102′ is biased such that the leg 103 applies a downward forceagainst the actuator 110.

Referring now to FIGS. 7 and 8, wherein an ejection device 200 is shown.The device 200 is an alternative embodiment of an ejection device madein accordance with the present invention. The device 200 includes aspring 210 and a recess 220 within the trigger housing. The device 200can be utilized in conjunction with the device 100 referenced above andas shown in FIGS. 7 and 8. However, it should be appreciated that inother exemplary embodiments, the device 200 is utilized without anadditional ejector device similar to the device 100. Moreover, it shouldbe appreciated that in this embodiment, the device 200 is disposed on asingle side of the trigger housing. It should be appreciated howeverthat in other exemplary embodiments, the device 200 is disposed on bothsides of the trigger housing.

The spring 210 has first and second legs 212 and 214. The spring isdisposed within the recess 220. Further, coils 216 of the spring 210 aredisposed about the pin 15. It is preferred that the recess be of a depththat allows coils 216 to be flush with the end of pin 15. In thisexemplary embodiment, the spring 210 is a torsional spring, wherein atleast the end of second leg 214 is disposed against a wall of the recess220 and at least the end of first leg 212 is disposed against the topsurface of the magazine 90 when in the engaged state, as shown in FIG.7. Preferably, the first leg 212 is curved downward to engage themagazine. Further, the second leg 214 is preferably completely disposedwithin the recess 220. The first leg 212 is of such a length that itextends out from the recess past the housing so as to be engageable withthe magazine as shown in FIG. 7. The first and second legs 212 and 214with their engagements against the magazine and the wall of the recess,respectively, are biased against one another so as to exert a downwardforce upon the magazine. The recess 220 has a shape to accommodate aportion of the spring 210. The recess 220 includes a coil recess portion221 and a leg recess portion 223. The coil recess portion 221 isoperably configured to receive the coils 216 and the leg recess portion223 is operably configured to receive the second leg 214 as shown inFIGS. 7 and 8. With this arrangement, the first leg 212, which is not inthe recess 220, is allowed to move along the trigger housing in a radialdirection from a compressed stage in the engaged state (FIG. 7) to aless compressed stage in the disengaged state (FIG. 8). Further, thebiased nature of the spring 210 pressing against the walls of the recess220 and the coils 216 being disposed about the pin 15, keeps the spring210 in position on the trigger housing and prevents it from becomingdislodged. In one exemplary embodiment, it is preferred that the firstleg of the spring 210 be about 1.35 inches long and that the second legbe about 0.75 inches long. Further, in a preferred exemplary embodiment,the wire size of the spring 210 is about 0.041 inches in diameter. It isalso preferred that that spring 210 have about three coils, and morepreferably just one coil. It should be appreciated that the number ofcoils will depend upon the wire size used for the spring. In a preferredembodiment, the outside diameter of the coil is less than 0.312 inchesin diameter and the inside diameter of the coil is greater and 0.2185inches.

FIG. 7 illustrates the engaged state of the magazine and FIG. 8 showsthe disengaged state. When the magazine is disengaged, the spring 210will force the magazine down away from the firearm. Further, although inthis exemplary embodiment, the magazine release mechanism is themechanism discussed above with reference to device 100, other magazinerelease mechanisms can be utilized with device 200 including the releasedevice that is standard from a conventional manufactured Ruger 10/22, orother after-market mechanisms.

It should be appreciated that the device 200 can be added to an existingtrigger housing. The invention includes a method of modifying a triggerhousing to include an ejection device made in accordance with thisinvention. The method of this invention will enable conventional orexisting Ruger 10/22 firearms to be modified to include a spring loadedejection mechanism. The method of the present invention includesacquiring a firearm. It is preferred that this step include acquiring anexisting trigger housing having first and second sides, an internalcavity defined by the first and second sides, and a pin spanning theinternal cavity. Some of the conventional internal components may alsobe disposed in the internal cavity, such as but not limited to thehammer.

The method further includes making a recess within a portion of thefirearm. It is preferred that the recess be made in at least one of thefirst and second sides. The making step preferably includes removing aportion of the thickness of the side with the recess. The making stepincludes taking the pin out of the housing prior to the making a recessstep. The making step is preferably performed by milling-out the recess.The making step further includes replacing the pin in the housing afterthe making a recess step. It should be appreciated that in otherexemplary embodiments, the making a recess step includes making a recessin other portions of the firearm, such as a receiver.

The method further includes obtaining and placing a spring within therecess. The recess is preferably shaped to accommodate the spring andincludes a coil recess portion and leg recess portion. The spring ispreferably a torsional spring having, a coil section and two legs. Therecess is further preferably shaped to accommodate the coil section andone of the two legs of the spring. The placing step includes disposingthe coil about the pin in the coil recess portion and disposing one ofthe two legs in the leg recess portion.

It should be appreciated that in the alternative embodiments describedbelow, the devices are used with firearms similar to the ones describedabove and the firearms include similar features and reference numbers,such as, but not limited too, a trigger housing, a magazine and areceiver.

Referring now to FIG. 9, wherein an ejection device 300 is shown. Thedevice 300 is an alternative embodiment of an ejection device made inaccordance with the present invention. The device 300 incorporatesbasically all of the characteristics and features of the device 200referenced above (with similar reference numbering) along with somediffering features. The device 300 includes a spring 310 and a recess320. The spring 310 includes a first and second legs 312 and 314 and thespring is disposed about a pin. One differing feature is that a recess320 is disposed in a receiver 309 of the firearm and not a triggerhousing 301 as with the device 200. So the device 300 includes thereceiver 309 having the recess 320 disposed therein. Further, the recess320 is disposed forward of the magazine 390 relative to the length andbarrel of the firearm, whereas the device 200 is disposed aft of themagazine, or more toward the stock of the firearm. FIG. 9, shows thedevice 300 positioning state when the magazine 390 in a disengagedstate. The recess 320 is preferred to be disposed in the receiver 309above a contact point where the spring 310 will engage the magazine 390,as shown.

Referring now to FIG. 10, wherein an ejection device 400 is shown. Thedevice 400 is an alternative embodiment of an ejection device made inaccordance with the present invention. The device 400 is identical tothe device 300 as it includes a spring 410 and a receiver 409 having arecess 420. The recess 420 is also not in a trigger housing 401 just aswith the device 300. The difference between the device 300 and 400 isthat the recess 420 of the device 400 is disposed in the receiver aft ofthe magazine 490, (relative to the length and barrel of the firearm), asshown in FIG. 10. FIG. 10, shows the device 400 positioning state whenthe magazine 490 in a disengaged state. The recess 420 is preferred tobe disposed in the receiver 409 above a contact point where the spring410 will engage the magazine 490, as shown.

Referring now to FIGS. 11-12, wherein an ejection device 500 is shown.The device 500 is an alternative embodiment of an ejection device madein accordance with the present invention. The device 500 is very similarto the device 100 referenced above and includes nearly all the samefeatures and characteristics excepts as noted. The device 500 includesan actuator 510 and a spring 502. The actuator includes an action arm520, an engagement member 530, a slot 540, and portions 550 and 542. Theaction arm 520 is operably configured to apply a force to a magazine590. The slot 540 is operably configured to receive a pin 515. One ofthe differences is that the device does not include the downwardextending leg below the action arm 520, as the actuator 110 includes leg160. Further, another difference is that the engagement member 530 isincorporated into the portion 542 and member 530 does not extendperpendicular to the portion 550. Another difference is that rather thanhaving a notch for the spring to engage, an orifice 532 is defined inthe member 530. These differences assist with providing a morestreamlined design for the actuator increasing the cost-effectiveness ofmanufacturing and assembly. FIG. 12, shows the device 500 positioningstate when the magazine 590 in an engaged state.

Referring now to FIG. 13, wherein an ejection device 600 is shown. Thedevice 600 is an alternative embodiment of an ejection device made inaccordance with the present invention. FIG. 13, shows the device 600positioning state when the magazine, not shown, in an engaged state. Thedevice 600 includes an actuator 610 and a spring 602. The actuator isanother design alternative for an actuator that can be used with thevarious embodiments of the present invention similar to the alternativedesign of the actuator of the device 500. The device 600 is very similarto the device 500 referenced above and includes nearly all the samefeatures and characteristics except as noted. The engagement member 630is disposed adjacent to and is a contiguous part of portion 642.Further, the engagement member 630 is disposed closer to the slot 640.An additional difference is that the slot 640 is an elliptical shapedorifice in this embodiment rather than an open slot. The slot 640 isoperably configured to receive a pin 615. The portion 642 extends to theportion 650 and action arm 620 to close off the upper side of the slot640.

Referring now to FIGS. 14-15, wherein an ejection device 700 is shown.The device 700 is an alternative embodiment of an ejection device madein accordance with the present invention. FIG. 14, shows the device 700positioning state when the magazine, not shown, in a disengaged state.The device 700 is very similar to the device 500 referenced above andincludes nearly all the same features and characteristics except asnoted. Particularly the shape of the actuator is different than theactuator of the device 500. The device 700 includes a spring 702 and anactuator 710. The actuator 710 includes an action arm 720, an engagementmember 730, a slot 740, and a portion 750. The slot 740 is defined by aloop 745 and portion 750 and is operably configured to receive a pin715. The components of this embodiment are aligned to form nearly alinear shaped actuator with an offset along its length. This design ofthe actuator provides a slim design and ease of manufacture.

Referring now to FIG. 16, wherein an ejection device 800 is shown. Thedevice 800 is an alternative embodiment of an ejection device made inaccordance with the present invention. The device 800 includes a spring802 and an actuator 810. The spring 802 is preferably a compressionspring disposed within a plunger housing 803. The housing 803 ispreferably formed in a receiver 809 of the firearm. The actuator 810includes an engagement member 830 for engaging the spring 802, a shank850 and an action end 820. The action end 820 is operably configured toengage and apply a force upon a magazine 890. The engagement member 830is disposed adjacent an end of the spring 802. The engagement member 830has a diameter that is larger than the diameter of the housing 803, suchthat the actuator will stay physically adjacent to the spring 802 andthe housing 802 when the spring is in an expanded state when themagazine 890 is in a disengaged state. The magazine 890 is ejected fromthe receiver when an ejection lever is moved to disengage the magazinestud 894, similar to the embodiment for the device 100 discussed above.The device 800 acts basically as a spring-loaded plunger located withinthe receiver 809 of the firearm. As in the other embodiments, thefirearm also includes a trigger housing 801. The device 800 is springbiased so as to apply a downward force upon the magazine 890. FIG. 16,shows the device 800 positioning state when the magazine 890 in adisengaged state.

Referring now to FIG. 17, wherein an ejection device 900 is shown. Thedevice 900 is an alternative embodiment of an ejection device made inaccordance with the present invention. The device 900 is similar to thedevice 100 referenced above, in that it includes a spring 902 and anactuator 910. The firearm includes, among other things, a triggerhousing 901 and a receiver 909. The receiver 909 includes a springhousing 903. The spring housing in this embodiment is a void in thereceiver 909 shaped to receiver the spring 902. The spring 902 isdisposed in the spring housing 903. The spring 902 is different howeveras it is a compression spring rather than a tension spring. Furtheractuator 910 is similar to actuator 110 in that it includes an actionarm 920, and an engagement member 930. The engagement member includes anorifice. The pin 915 is disposed through the orifice when the device isin use. Further, rather than translating in just the vertical direction,the actuator 910 in this embodiment rotates about the pin 915. Thecompression spring 902 is disposed above the actuator 910 and biased toexert a force upon the engagement portion 930 of the actuator 910 suchthat the actuator 910 will rotate counter clockwise about the pin when amagazine 990 is in a disengaged state. FIG. 17, shows the device 900positioning state when the magazine 990 in a disengaged state.

Referring now to FIG. 18, wherein an ejection device 1000 is shown. Thedevice 1000 is an alternative embodiment of an ejection device made inaccordance with the present invention. The device 1000 is nearlyidentical to the device 900 shown in FIG. 17, and it includes identicalcomponents, as shown. The firearm includes a trigger housing 1001 and areceiver 1009. The device 1000 includes a spring 1002 and an actuator1010 having an engagement member 1030, and action arm 1020. The receiver1009 includes a housing 1003, which is operable configured to receivethe spring 1002. The difference is that the device 1000 is disposedforward of a magazine 1090 rather than aft as with the device 900,relative to the barrel of the firearm. The device is also disposedwithin the receiver of the firearm, rather than the trigger housing.With this orientation difference, the actuator will rotate clockwiseabout the pin 1013 when the magazine is being disengaged. FIG. 18, showsthe device 1000 positioning state when the magazine 1090 in a disengagedstate.

Referring now to FIGS. 19-20, wherein an ejection device 1100 is shownfrom a right side. The device 1100 is an alternative embodiment of anejection device made in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 19,shows the device 1100 positioning state when the magazine, not shown, ina disengaged state. The device 1100 is similar to the device 900 and itincludes similar features and characteristics, such as the actuator 1110rotating about a pin 1115 to eject the magazine. One difference betweenthe embodiments is the spring. Spring 1102 is a tension spring ratherthan a compression spring and further, the spring 1102 is also disposedbelow the actuator 1110 rather than above it, relative to the firearm.As the magazine is inserted into the receiver (not shown), the actuator1110 is rotated counter clockwise about pin 1115. This rotation of theactuator expands the spring 1102, making the tension spring apply adownward force upon the actuator 1110 at the engagement member 1130. Theengagement member 1130 is disposed at a distance along the length of theactuator 1110 from the pin 1115, so that when the magazine isdisengaged, the tension spring 1102 will pull the actuator, forcing itto rotate about the pin 1115 and hence the action arm 1120, of theactuator 1110, will apply a force upon the magazine forcing it toautomatically eject from the receiver. The disengaged state of themagazine is shown in FIG. 19, wherein the actuator 1110 comes to restagainst a pin 1133 in the housing. The pin 1133 acts as a stop to limitthe radial movement of the actuator.

Referring now to FIGS. 21-22, wherein an ejection device 1200 is shown.The device 1200 is an alternative embodiment of an ejection device madein accordance with the present invention. FIG. 21, shows the device 1200positioning state when the magazine, not shown, in a disengaged state.The device 1200 is very similar to the device 1100 and includes similarfeatures and characteristics, including a tension spring 1202 and anactuator 1210. The actuator 1210 includes an engagement portion 1230, anaction arm 1220. The actuator 1210 rotates about a pin 1215 when in use.One difference between the device 1200 and the device 1100 is theoverall shape of the actuator 1210. Another difference is the inclusionof a loop section 1245 on the actuator 1210. The loop section 1245 isoperably configured to be disposed about a pin 1233 and is shaped toallow for the rotation of the actuator 1210 about pin 1215. The width ofthe loop section 1245 is configured to just slightly greater than thediameter of the pin 1233. The length of the loop section is configuredto be the desired radial translation of the actuator within the housing,not shown. The loop section 1245 will limit the radial translation ofthe actuator about the pin 1215.

Referring now to FIGS. 23-24, wherein an ejection device 1300 is shown.The device 1300 is an alternative embodiment of an ejection device madein accordance with the present invention. The ejection device 1300includes a block 1380 a plurality of actuators 1310 and at least twosprings 1302. The block is preferably plastic. Formed within the blockare two holes or cavities 1382. A spring 1302 is disposed in each of theholes 1382. Actuator 1310 includes an action arm 1320 and an engagementmember 1330. The action arm 1320 in this embodiment is a plunger. Theengagement member 1330 is disposed against one end of one of thesprings. An engagement member 1330 of a different actuator engages anopposing end of the same spring, so as to form pairs of plungers asshown. The diameter of the engagement member is preferably larger thanthe diameter of the hole 1382 so as to prevent the spring from escapingfrom the hole. The springs 1302 are preferably compression springs. Theactuators and springs in this embodiment operate much like the plungersdescribed above in connection with the ejection device 800. Attached toopposing sides of the block are conventional magazines 1390. Adifference between this embodiment and the embodiment 800 is that theactuator and spring is located within the block and not the receiver.

Referring now to FIGS. 25-26, wherein an ejection device 1400 is shown.The device 1400 is an alternative embodiment of an ejection device madein accordance with the present invention. The device 1400 is similar tothe device 1300 in that it includes a block 1480 for holding magazines1490 on opposing sides of the block. However, rather than having theactuator and spring design as many of the embodiments above have, it hasa spring 1410 and recess 1420 type design as many of the embodimentsabove have. The recess in this embodiment is a slot or hole for thespring to be fitted through. The spring 1410 is a biased wire, whichacts like a torsion spring.

Referring now to FIG. 27, wherein an ejection device 1500 is shown. Thedevice 1500 is an alternative embodiment of an ejection device made inaccordance with the present invention. The device 1500 is and functionssimilar to the device 800, in that it includes a similar plunger typedesign of the actuator 1510 and spring 1502. In this embodiment amagazine 1590 includes an extended magazine 1598. A difference betweenthis embodiment and the device 800 is that the ejection device 1500 isdisposed in the extended magazine 1598 and not the receiver. Otherwisethe ejection device functions in a similar manner.

While this invention has been described in conjunction with the specificembodiments outlined above, it is evident that many alternatives,modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in theart. Accordingly, the preferred embodiments of the invention, as setforth above, are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Variouschanges and combinations thereof may be made without departing from thespirit and scope of this invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A magazine ejection device for a firearm having areceiver, a magazine, and a trigger housing with two side platesdefining an internal cavity, a housing wall in the internal cavity, andfirst and second pins each spanning the internal cavity, wherein themagazine has an engaged state and a disengaged state of operation,comprising: an actuator having an engagement member and an action armconnected by a body portion, the actuator being operably configured tobe at least partially disposed and moveable within the internal cavity,wherein the action arm is in contact with the magazine when in use andthe magazine is in the engaged state; and, a spring being disposedadjacent to the engagement member, the spring being operably configuredto be disposed within the internal cavity and being disposed adjacent tothe second pin when in use, wherein the spring is biased to apply afirst force upon the actuator and the action arm applies a second forceupon the magazine when in use and the magazine is in the engaged state.2. A magazine ejection device, as recited in claim 1, wherein the springis a tension spring.
 3. A magazine ejection device, as recited in claim1, wherein the spring is a torsion spring.
 4. A magazine ejectiondevice, as recited in claim 1, wherein the spring is removably attachedto the engagement member.
 5. A magazine ejection device, as recited inclaim 1, wherein the actuator includes a second body portion and a slotdefined between the body portion and the second body portion, whereinthe slot has a bottom edge and is operably configured to receive thefirst pin when the device is in use, wherein the actuator moves relativeto the first pin by the first force when the device is in use and themagazine is altered from the engaged state to the disengaged state, andthe movement of the actuator is limited by the first pin and the bottomedge.
 6. A magazine ejection device, as recited in claim 1, wherein thebody of the actuator slides along the wall when the device is in use andthe magazine is altered from the engaged state to the disengaged state.7. A magazine ejection device, as recited in claim 1, wherein theactuator includes a stopping leg attached to the action arm, and whereinthe stopping leg is operably configured to be engageable with the walland limit movement of the actuator within the housing when the device isin use and the magazine is altered from the engaged state to thedisengaged state.
 8. A magazine ejection device for a firearm having areceiver, a magazine, wherein the magazine has an engaged state and adisengaged state of operation, comprising: a trigger housing havingfirst and second opposing sides, a cavity defined by the first andsecond opposing sides, a pin spanning the cavity and a recess within atleast one of the first and second opposing sides; and, a spring havingfirst and second ends, the second end being disposed within the recesswhen the device is in use and wherein the first end being operablyconfigured to engage and apply a force on the magazine when the deviceis in use and the magazine is in the engaged state.
 9. A magazineejection device, as recited in claim 8, wherein the recess includes acoil recess portion and a spring leg recess portion.
 10. A magazineejection device, as recited in claim 9, wherein the spring includes acoil section and first and second legs attached to the coil section andwherein the second leg is disposed within the spring leg recess portionand a portion of the coil section is disposed within the coil recesssection.
 11. A magazine ejection device, as recited in claim 8, whereinthe recess is disposed on an exterior surface of the at least one of thefirst and second opposing sides.
 12. A magazine ejection device, asrecited in claim 8, wherein the spring is a torsional spring.
 13. Amagazine ejection device, as recited in claim 8, wherein the first legextends beyond the housing.
 14. A magazine ejection device, as recitedin claim 8, wherein the coil section includes two coils.
 15. A method,comprising: acquiring a firearm having a receiver and a trigger housinghaving first and second sides, an internal cavity defined by the firstand second sides, and a pin spanning the internal cavity; making arecess within a portion of the firearm; and, placing a torsional springwithin the recess.
 16. A method, as recited in claim 15, wherein themaking a recess step includes making a recess in at least one of thefirst and second sides of the trigger housing.
 17. A method, as recitedin claim 15, wherein the making a recess step includes making a recessin the receiver.
 18. A method, as recited in claim 15, wherein themaking step includes removing the pin out of the housing prior to themaking step and replacing the pin in the housing after the making step.19. A method, as recited in claim 15, wherein the making step includesmaking a recess having a leg section and a coil section, and wherein theleg section is operably configured to be shaped to receive a leg of thespring and the coil section is operably configured to be shaped toreceive a coil section of the spring.
 20. A method, as recited in claim15, wherein the placing a spring step includes placing the torsionalspring about the pin.